Monthly Archives: September 2008

Been dealing with some family drama. My stepfather passed last Saturday and we had the funeral today. Even though he was sick for awhile, it still came as a shock. This man had been with my mother for 20 years. I remember Coach, that’s what we called him, would always be ready with a smile and was always willing to help you however he could. When I was in college, he would come by the dorm with a sack of grocery and take me out to dinner. He loved my mother and took care of her. I couldn’t have asked for a better father. Thinking about all the times we spent together, I composed a poem to honor him. My sisters and I read it at the funeral. Here it is:

BONUS DAD

With this ring, a man took a wifeAnd three little girls were includedThat man entered all of our livesNo one was ever excluded

It takes a special kind of manTo walk into a ready made familyBut he assumed the responsibility and loved us allAlways with a smileAnd a story filled with wisdom

He gave correction with a smileQuick to offer assistanceA strong, gentle teddy bearThe Rhett sisters were truly blessed

He was there for weddings, holidays, celebrationsAnd graduationsOur children were his grandchildrenHe showered them with adulation

And as we grew and moved awayWe took comfort in the factThat this man would take care of our momAnd always have our backs

He may not have been there at our birthsBut he was there to nurture and guide usWe got a double dose of loveThe Rhett sisters were truly blessed

Never considered a stepfatherLoved as a parentThis man is known as CoachOur Bonus Dad.

This man was a major influence on my life and I will miss him. What a man, what a man. What a mighty good man.